They're not a total duplicate, but they are different enough that they're not exactly a replacement, either.

It sounds, from what you indicated, that the first ones are too worn out to wear in social situations or at the office, let's say, so you'd might as well wear them when by yourself, for example, until they're totally unwearable.

I can see the second ones, though, only with pants. I can't see them with a skirt or dress, or shorts, while the first ones could easily go either way. That's why I can't consider them a total replacement.

I love these! I do hope they are comfortable for you

They look like a wise replacement looking at the things you mentioned... the leather back won't get ruined with driving, you can wear socks, they have the animal print... looks like a win-win to me ☺

Hi Thistle --

Glad you're trying them!

Even if you bought them at the same time I wouldn't see them as a duplicate since seasonally they rarely overlap for you.

But then I'm a big duplicator, especially for shoes (picky + feet issues) but also clothes. I don't care if I "split wears" as long as the less-worn item still gets worn a fair bit.

The only downside is the uniform aspect but given my days that's usually a feature not a bug. When that starts to irritate me I'm usually just sick of the silhouette.

Good luck with the comfort factor! If they work out maybe you need a pair in a solid shade.